“I must ask your pardon for intruding, doctor. I was directed to your house, but I’m afraid it is a wild-goose chase, as I merely want to see a gentleman I fancy I have met before; but as he seems to have disappeared, I suppose I must tell you that a young man named Eben, or Ebenezer Croft, has referred me to his master, who was said to be on a visit at Wedwell Park. This man Croft has got into trouble, sir, and will have to go before a magistrate.”
“What for, pray?”
“For trespassing on the company’s private premises at the Crystal Palace, sir.”
“What a paltry charge, Mr Warner! I may possibly mention the case to Squire Dove, who is a Justice of the Peace, and acquainted, I know, with some of the most influential directors and shareholders of the palace. The squire will no doubt see that the case is thoroughly looked into, even if it comes to an exposure in the Times. Yes, sir,” continued the doctor, “this farcical seizure of poor little Croft, who is a gentleman’s servant, will no doubt make a great stir and keep people from visiting the palace, lest they step accidently from public to private rooms, which most likely join each other.”
“Something more will come out about the premises that have been entered,” said Warner, “as they belong to a scientific gentleman, whose friends are, I believe, acquainted with Squire Dove.” (A loudish scratch).
“May be, Mr Warner; Croft has only committed a pardonable mistake—but if bail is required it will be forthcoming.” (A whisper from the case, “Shut up!”)
“The truth is, Doctor Peters, that Croft is locked up, and he fears that his master is in the same predicament.”
“My good man, what nonsense!” cried the doctor.
“Nonsense you may think it. However, I am merely doing my duty in making inquiries; but don’t you suppose that I am a fool, sir.”
“You are far from that, I’m sure; but allow me, Warner, to present you with this,” replied the doctor, putting his finger and thumb into his waistcoat pocket.